How can I limit my child's video-game playing time?

First, you have to assess how much he's playing and then consider the other things he does with his free time. Most child development experts recommend that children's "total screen time" — which includes watching television and videos, surfing the Internet, and playing computer or video games — be limited to one to two hours a day. If your child is playing a favorite game for, say, 45 minutes a day and watching one program on television, and he's getting his homework and chores done and getting some physical play time each day, then I wouldn't be overly concerned about curtailing his game-playing. On the other hand, if he's glued to the joy stick for hours on end, it's time to set limits. Here are some suggestions for keeping video-game playing time in check:

Set a time limit before the game begins. For instance, if you want your child to play for only 30 minutes, tell him that's the limit and set the kitchen timer. When the timer goes off, so does the game, no questions asked. When he balks or tries to negotiate more time, calmly restate the time limit. If he refuses to stop playing, give the game console a "time-out." Unplug the game and put it away in a designated time-out place for as long as you feel is appropriate.

Have a solution for the "But I'm in the middle of a game!" protest. Almost every game has a "save game" function, so your child can pause mid-game without losing any points, clues, weapons, etc. You may have to help your child figure out how this function works.

When "time's up," suggest a few alternative activities, such as playing a board game, reading a book with you, or doing an arts and crafts project. This should help ease him away from the game.

Require that homework or chores be completed before playing games or, for that matter, before watching television or surfing the Internet.

Don't put the computer or video-game console in your child's room where he can play unsupervised.

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